1. Pay attention to your home
Two of the most obvious signs that indicate you need to take action are: Missing shingles and stains in the ceilings. If your roof is missing shingles that indicates your roof decking is directly exposed to the elements meaning that water will start to work its way through your roofing system until eventually you’ll see it coming down your ceilings and by that point the problem is a lot bigger.
A stain in the ceiling is the result of a problem with your roofing system or plumbing and water lines. In both cases it’s important to address the situation. If the problem is not related to internal water lines this usually means there is an intrusion point on your roof where rain water has found a way in and it’s a clear indication that you need to take action. A small leak today can become a big loss in the future, if unattended it can cause severe damage to the entire structure of your property.
2. Identifying water intrusion points
Once you’ve noticed the presence of water, either a stain on your ceiling or a constant drip, you need to identify where the leak is coming from, this is commonly referred as the Intrusion point. Water travels so usually where you noticed the leak doesn’t necessarily mean that’s where it started. Check the higher areas of your attic and where chimneys or vents are located, these are common places where leaks originate. Also, near the eves, rakes and valleys.
3. Mitigate the damage
After identifying where the intrusion point is, try to make a temporary repair if possible to minimize the extent of damages and prevent other areas of your home from being affected. If you are not sure about what to do don’t worry, this would be a good time to contact an expert and have him solve the problem. You should not get up on the roof if you don’t have the experience and safety gear to perform the work needed.
Your safety should always be the priority so don’t put yourself in what could potentially be a dangerous situation. It also helps to document the damages with pictures and videos, this will help when explaining to your handyman or roofer what they are dealing with and could also be used as evidence in an insurance claim situation.
4. Hire an expert roofing company
In some cases you will be able to address and fix the problem yourself but in other more complex situations getting help from an experienced roofer might be what you need. Make sure the professionals you hire are licensed and insured; accidents can happen and it is always better to be safe than sorry.
5. Don’t take your roof for granted!
At Dycon we are always willing to help you keep your home safe.
Remember If you are looking for experts in Roofing, you have come to the right place!
